Mr Benjamin in welcoming his successor said that he had confidence in Mr Dambui to lead the CIC team with its current initiatives and programs. He congratulated Mr Dambui and thanked the CIC management and staff for their support and cooperation during his time as Acting CEO.

Dr Illa’ava expressed satisfaction in Mr Benjamin’s contribution and effort during the last two years as CIC’s acting CEO. “I congratulate Mr Benjamin on a job well done in bringing the industry forward despite a lot of challenges”, said Dr Illa’ava. He called on the staff and management of CIC to give the same support and cooperation to Mr Charles Dambui as he takes on his new role as acting CEO for CIC.

Mr Dambui is well aware of some of the notable projects initiated by Mr Benjamin and expressed that this will be taken on board and continued on until outcomes are seen. Mr Dambui challenged staff and management that the industry is relevant at this current time and everyone should strive to make themselves relevant while here with CIC. “Let’s work together and help to drive the industry forward”, he added.

Mr Dambui is not a new comer to the coffee industry as he was previously the Team Leader for the Economics Unit at CIC before joining the Cocoa Board in 2013. His appointment comes into effect through endorsement by NEC on May 25th, 2015.